HRVs & ERVs

I have an HRV in my home and the air in my house is too dry. What's wrong?

You have your control set too low. Increase the desired level of humidity. Change ventilation mode from continuous to standby. Or, your fresh air appliance (HRV) is out of balance. In which case you need to have your appliance balanced.

I have an HRV in my home and the air in my house is too humid. What's wrong?

Check to make sure your humidistat control is not set too high. Has there been a sudden change in temperature? If so, wait until outside temperature stabilizes (winter). Heating will also improve the situation. Storing too much wood inside. Even dried, a cord of wood contains more than 20 gallons of water. Be sure the dryer is venting to the outside. Possibly there is poor air circulation near windows. Open curtains or blinds. Bay or bow windows may require mechanical method. The appliance may be out of balance. In which case balance the appliance. The basement door may be too well sealed. Open a door or install a grille on the door.

What is the warranty on HRV cores?

Aluminum HRV cores have a limited lifetime warranty. A properly maintained HRV core should last a very long time.

What is the warranty on ERV cores?

ERV cores carry a 5 year warranty.

What is the difference between a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) and an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV)?

An HRV transfers "sensible" energy (Heat/Cool) from the high (heat) to the low (cool), tempering the cool air in/out. An ERV transfers the "sensible" energy the same as the HRV, it also transfers "Latent" energy (humidity) from the high (warm) to the low (cool) side. In southern areas of the country where the relative humidity is generally higher outside than inside and ERV transfers most of the high incoming relative humidity to the cool exhaust air stream.

Can an Energy Recovery Ventilator be used in northern climates?

Yes, an ERV can be used in areas where the outdoor temperature is low. It is recommended that an ERV with Defrost capability be installed where the temperature drops below 23 degrees F. for more than 48 hours to stop icing of the core.

How do I clean the aluminum core in my Fantech HRV? How often?

1. Disconnect the HRV from the power. 2. Open access door. 3. Remove electrostatic filters. 4. Carefully grip end of core (it has a plastic handle), and pull out evenly. The core is a snug fit but it will slide out. 5. Wash core in warm soapy water (do not use a dishwasher). Rinse in clean cool eater and let dry. 6. Reinstall clean, dry core as follows. Mount bottom flange into core guide approximately 1/4". Mount left then right flange into side core guides. Mount the top flange into the core guide the same distance as others. With all four corners in place and straight push hard in the center of the core until the core stops on the back of the HRV. 7. Reinstall clean electrostatic filters. 8. Close and latch door, apply power to the unit and test. It is recommended that the core be cleaned every 3-6 months during the spring and summer, not during the winter.

What maintenance is needed on an ERV core?

1. Disconnect the ERV from the power. 2. Open access door. 3. Remove electrostatic filters. 4. Carefully grip end of core (it has a plastic handle), and pull out evenly. The core is a snug fit but it will slide out. 5. Vacuum the core using a soft brush attachment. 6. Reinstall clean, dry core as follows. Mount bottom flange into core guide approximately 1/4". Mount left then right flange into side core guides. Mount the top flange into the core guide the same distance as others. With all four corners in place and straight push hard in the center of the core until the core stops on the back of the ERV. 7. Reinstall clean electrostatic filters. 8. Close and latch door, apply power to the unit and test.

What control or controls can be used for a Fantech HRV/ERV?

Fantech has an extensive range of convenient wall controls that will help you efficiently operate your HRV or ERV.

Where do I install a Fantech Whole House HEPA filtration unit?

DM3000P – Normally installed on the cold air return of your furnace or air handler.CM3000 and CM3000I - Can be installed into the cold air return similar to the DM3000P or used as a stand alone unit. It can also be integrated with a Fantech HRV/ERV.

Can the HEPA unit be installed in an unconditioned space like a garage?

The CM3000I has an insulated cover suitable for installations in unconditioned spaces.

How often do I need to change the filters on my Fantech HEPA filtration unit?

The Prefilter and Carbon filters are normally changed every 3 to 6 months or as needed. The HEPA filter should have a life span of 2 to 5 years depending on the amount of particulate in the air and the maintenance of the prefilter and carbon filter.

Where can I buy replacement filters for the Fantech HEPA filtration unit?